The protests at Gothenburg in 2001 were to European integration what
the Battle of Seattle in 1999 was to global trade and financial
integration. In this course, we will explore how citizens seek to
fight for their interests in response to globalization and European
integration. In the European Union, more and more decisions are made
outside of national channels of representation—think, for instance,
of Europe’s common currency. Where does that leave democracy? How
are citizens to articulate their preferences? We will study cross-
border forms of protest and interest representation, focusing on the
European Union as the region with the most institutionalized form of
interstate cooperation.
Readings will draw on social movement theory, European integration,
international political economy, and international organizations.
Written requirements will include quizzes, two exams, and a group
assignment.
Required text:
John McCormick, Understanding the European Union: A Concise
Introduction.